Centenary College's Main Academic Building
Constructed between 1855 and 1857, the Main Academic Building had four stories and contained classrooms, offices, meeting halls, a gymnasium, an observatory (until 1870), and an auditorium that could seat 2,000 people in the central portion of the building.
The small white fences next to this sign show the foundation of two of the columns that belonged to the Main Academic Building on Centenary College's campus.
Aside from the academic functions, the building served as a headquarters for federal troops during the Civil War. After Centenary College moved to Shreveport in 1908, the building fell into disrepair and was destroyed in 1935.
Photo Captions
"In the year [1857], the beautiful center building was erected at a cost of $60,000, which was a ???? once considering the dimensions of this brick building, graced by these massive columns. When it was built, it was the greatest public building in that section of the country and possibly one of the greatest buildings in Louisiana d???? to education"
William Hamilton Nelson
Centenary College , Class of 1922.
The open field behind the Main Academic Building was used for tennis courts and a baseball field.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Education.
Location. 30°
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Centenary State Historic Site (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Centenary State Historic Site (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Battle of Jackson (about 600 feet away); a different marker also named Centenary State Historic Site (approx. 0.2 miles away); Crown Metal Products Narrow Gauge Locomotive #2 (approx. 0.2 miles away); First European Settlers (approx. ¼ mile away); a different marker also named Battle of Jackson (approx. ¼ mile away); Methodist Church (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Jackson.
More about this marker. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday-Saturday.
Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
Entrance Fees:
$4 per person;
Free for seniors (62 and over) and children (3 and under).
Credits. This page was last revised on June 9, 2022. It was originally submitted on September 23, 2017, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana. This page has been viewed 234 times since then and 9 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 23, 2017, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana.